Mary "Dump" Brown, daughter of the late George Murray, Sr. and Martha "Mac" Patterson Murray, was born May 9, 1928, in Sumter, South Carolina. Her mother passed away when she was very young, and she was affectionately raised by her father and step-mother, the late Daisy Smith Murray.
Mary received her education in the public schools of Sumter, SC. At an early age, she joined Wayman Chapel A.M.E Church where she faithfully served as a member of the Senior Usher Board, Stewardess Board #3, and the Sweet Heart Burgess Missionary Society.
Mary was united in holy matrimony to the late Thomas Brown, Sr. and within this union they reared five children.
For more than 20 years, Mary worked for Sumter School District Two serving as a cook at Shaw Heights Elementary and Oakland Primary Schools and later as a custodian at Furman High School until her retirement.
Mary's favorite pastimes were cooking and gardening. Due to her ability to revive sickly flowers that were brought to her by many in the community, she acquired the name "Flower Doctor".Preparing meals for family and friends was her greatest pleasure. The highlight of her week was attending the DeLaine Community Center Senior Program where she attended Bible study, served on the kitchen committee, played her favorite game of bingo and participated in the annual senior games in which she won numerous awards to include winning first place in the basketball competition for numerous years.
Mary's life's purpose was to be of service to others. She gave unselfishly and loved whole heartedly. Her living was not in vain because she helped many people along the way. Through her dedication, honor, compassion, and generosity, Mary made a difference and impacted many lives.
Mary transitioned peacefully into eternal rest on January 10, 2018 at her residence in Sumter, SC.
She leaves to cherish her loving memories; two sons, Herman (Frances) Brown and Thomas Brown Jr., both of Sumter, SC; acknowledged son, Rev. Charlie S. Howard of Sumter, SC; a granddaughter, whom she raised, SaRoni Brown (Perry) Loyd;a daughter-in-law, Janie Brown of Sumter, SC; a brother, Sammie Anderson of Wedgefield, SC; a sister-in-law, Wilhemenia Anderson; fourgod-children; three grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and close friends.
In addition to her parents and spouse, Mary was preceded in death by two sons, Lewis Brown and Henry Brown; two grandsons, Orlando Brown and Farion Brown; five brothers, and five sisters.
Public Viewing will held on Tuesday Jan. 16, 2018 from 1-6pm at Job's Mortuary
Ms. Brown will be placed in the church on Wed. at 12NOON for viewing until the hour of service.
Funeral Service will be held on Wed. Jan. 17, 2018 at 1pm at Wayman AME Church, 160 North Kings Highway, Sumter, SC WITH Pastor Dennis Broughton, Jr. Officiating.
Interment will follow in the Wayman Chapel AME Church Cemetery.
Family will be receiving friends at the home 6060 Lost Creek Drive, Sumter, SC